New restaurant openings, music festivals, markets and so much more
If you’re hunting for the coolest things to do in Dubai and Abu Dhabi this October, you’ve come to the right spot. From epic food festivals and live music jams to the hottest new hotels and restaurants, here are 20 must-try experiences in the UAE this October 2025.
From October 1: Welcome the return of Dubai Fountain
Emaar gave the Dubai Fountain a serious glow-up over summer 2025, and after a five-month break, this iconic Dubai hotspot is back from October 1. Behind the scenes, the fountain got a major tech and style upgrade — a new water-resistant floor replaced the old one, plus there’s fresh waterproofing and insulation. They even added glowing blue tiles to make the lake sparkle like never before. Shows run every 30 minutes from 6pm to 11pm nightly, with afternoon vibes at 1pm & 1:30pm on weekdays and 2pm & 2:30pm on weekends. The best part? It’s totally free. Want to catch the show with a bite? Here are 42 options with the best views.
Location: Outside Dubai Mall, in front of Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai
When: Relaunches October 1
Visit: @emaardubai
October 2 to 12: Get some belly laughs at Dubai Comedy Festival
Ready to catch some serious laughs this October? You’re spoiled for choice — and even languages! The Dubai Comedy Festival, the city’s biggest comedy bash, is bringing over 50 comedians to the stage from October 2 to 12. Highlights? Big names like Joanne McNally, Omid Djalili, Mo Amer, and Tom Segura are set to kill it with their sets. Get ready to LOL nonstop!
Location: Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai Opera, and New Covent Garden Theatre
When: October 2 to 12
Tickets: From Dhs115 (show dependent)
Book: dubaicomedyfest.ae
From October 2: Check out an immersive new art exhibition
Craving a fresh art experience? Hit up kanvas Dubai this October for NOWADEUS, an epic immersive installation by New Zealand’s multidisciplinary artist Tim Christie and The Grid. Inside, you’ll find seven massive “icons of today” — bold symbols of our biggest obsessions: tech, fitness, beauty, fame, materialism, outrage, and power. It’s a thought-provoking journey that makes you rethink what’s really grabbing your attention these days. Best part? It’s free and runs until November 7.
Location: kanvas, Al Khayat Avenue, 19th Street, Al Quoz
When: Weekdays, October 2 to November 7
Visit: @kanvas_dubai
October 2 and 4: Witness some thrilling NBA action in the capital
The NBA is making a slam dunk comeback to the capital this October, and you can now snag your tickets for one of the year’s hottest sporting events. The NBA Abu Dhabi Games will have the New York Knicks going head-to-head with the Philadelphia 76ers in two adrenaline-fueled pre-season matchups at Etihad Arena.
Location: Etihad Arena
When: October 2 and 4
Tickets: From Dhs225
Book: etihadarena.ae
From October 2: Dive into the world’s highest infinity pool
There’s a new reason to look up in Dubai — and it’s soaring 310 meters high. Tattu Sky Pool, one of three epic new dining spots atop Ciel Dubai Marina, opens October 2 and is set to be the world’s highest infinity pool. The views? All city, all day. The vibe? Next-level luxe. Prices start at Dhs300 during the launch phase. It’s part of Tattu Dubai, the first international spot from the UK-born brand, bringing you a triple threat: glam pan-Asian eats, a sky-high pool, and a chic rooftop lounge.
Location: Ciel Dubai Marina
When: Soft opening from October 2, grand opening from October 10
Book: tattu.me
October 3 to 16: Snap up some bargains at the Dubai Home Festival
Into interior design? Mid-reno? Or just love sprucing up your space? If yes, then the Dubai Home Festival is your vibe — back for two weeks this month. Whether you’re revamping your interiors or giving your garden a glow-up, you’ll find all the inspo and deals you need at malls and home stores across Dubai. Think discounts up to 75% at major home brands, plus exclusive events and activations popping up all over the city.
Location: Dubai-wide
When: October 3 to 16
Visit: visitdubai.com
From October 6: Dine at the legendary Carbone
The long-awaited Carbone is landing at Atlantis The Royal this October, joining an already stacked lineup that includes Nobu Beach Club, Dinner by Heston, and Milos. Known as the ultra-exclusive celeb fave from New York, this Dubai spot marks Carbone’s ninth global location. Expect classic Italian-American hits — like their iconic spicy rigatoni — served up in retro-glam surroundings. It’s definitely shaping up to be one of the hottest reservations in town.
Location: Atlantis The Royal
When: From October 6
Book: @carbonedxb
October 9 to 26: Say Prost to a huge Oktoberfest celebration
Grand Hyatt Dubai’s Oktoberfest is back for its 17th year, throwing one of the city’s biggest Bavarian blowouts. Step into the iconic Grand Oktoberfest Tent for a spread of pretzels, bratwurst, schnitzel, and massive 1-litre steins filled with authentic German brews—all vibing to the beats of Munich’s own Die Kirchdorfer Oktoberfest Band. Every weekend serves up a lively Bavarian feast, and Sundays level up with a family-friendly Bavarian brunch packed with live jams, comfort classics, and good vibes all around.
Location: Grand Oktoberfest Tent, Grand Hyatt Dubai
When: Every Thursday to Saturday from October 9 to 26
Price: Dhs199 per person (buffet only, drinks charged separately)
Book: @grandhyattdubai
From October 10: Snap up a bargain at Ripe Market
Ripe Market has seriously leveled up as a must-visit spot in Dubai, and it’s making its comeback at Dubai Police Academy Park starting Saturday, October 10. This market is a total vibe for shoppers, packed with small biz stalls selling everything from jewelry and clothes to accessories and kids’ toys. Plan to spend the day because the food scene is on point, and there’s tons to keep the little ones busy—think petting zoos, pony rides, art workshops, and way more. You’ll find this weekend fave at its home base, Academy Park, every weekend. Opening hours? Saturdays from 9 AM to 9 PM and Sundays from 9 AM to 7 PM.
Location: Ripe Market, Academy Park
When: Saturday and Sunday from October 10
Visit: @ripemarket
From October 14: Take a walk on the wild side at Dubai Safari Park
After a little chill-out period away from the sun, Dubai Safari Park is swinging its gates back open on October 14. Home to around 3,000 animals—from tigers and gibbons to moon bears, lions, elephants, giraffes, camels, Arabian oryx, wolves, mountain gazelles, and way more—this spot is wild in every sense. The summer shutdown keeps the animals (and visitors) safe and sound. No word yet on any fresh upgrades or new critters joining the crew, but if we catch any juicy news, you’ll be the first to know.
Location: Al Warqa, Hatta Road
When: From October 14
Book: dubaisafari.ae
From October 15: Check in for a sleek city stay at Mandarin Oriental Downtown
Dubai’s about to get a double dose of Mandarin Oriental luxury with its newest spot dropping in Downtown this October. Nestled in the eye-catching Wasl Tower, this hotel’s already making waves with what’s set to be the tallest ceramic façade in the region. Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Dubai, will boast 259 sleek rooms and suites, alongside 224 branded residences, a lineup of gourmet dining, and a next-level spa experience. Food lovers, get ready for 10 epic restaurants and bars serving up everything from French and Chinese to Greek, Italian, and beyond.
Location: Sheikh Zayed Road
When: October
Book: mandarinoriental.com
From October 15: Experience the world in one place with the return of Global Village
Year after year, Global Village Dubai pulls in over 10 million visitors, solidifying its spot as one of the city’s top outdoor hangouts. Imagine a massive open-air mall under the stars, packed with goodies from around the world. From endless stalls selling clothes, jewelry, shoes, groceries, homeware, cosmetics, and perfumes to a global smorgasbord of flavors, it’s a shopping and foodie paradise. Plus, there’s nonstop cultural shows, roaming performers, and fun zones that the whole family will vibe with. Global Village kicks off again on October 15. Catch you there!
Location: Dubailand, Dubai
When: October 15
Book: globalvillage.ae
October date TBC: Check out the seaside outposts of two homegrown heroes
Two local legends are teaming up to drop a fresh dual dining experience at Club Vista Mare this October. Canary Beach brings that laid-back West Coast vibe, while The MAINE Palm serves up East Coast-inspired flavors right on the shorefront. With four distinct dining spots—think lounge bars, a chill terrace, seaside tables, beach beds, cabanas, and more—you get to pick the vibe that suits your mood perfectly.
Location: Club Vista Mare
When: October
Book: @canarybeach
October 17 and 24: Plan a big night out around the return of Pacha Icons
After a massive summer run at Destino Five Ibiza, Pacha Icons is back in Dubai for the winter, ready to light up Playa Pacha at FIVE LUXE with epic DJ sets and festivals. The season kicks off on October 17 with a banging opening party headlined by the legendary Carl Cox, followed by Blondish dropping her high-energy beats on October 24, bringing that electric vibe back to town.
Location: Playa Pacha, FIVE LUXE
When: October 17 (Carl Cox), October 24 (Blondish)
Tickets: From Dhs150
Book: platinumlist.net
October 24 to November 2: Sing-along to Summer Nights at Grease the Musical
Dubai Opera is turning up the nostalgia this October with the iconic Grease the Musical, bringing all the retro vibes, slick moves, and catchy tunes to the stage. Follow the story of sweet, straight-laced Sandy and rebel greaser Danny, who shared a secret summer romance—only to part ways when distance got in the way. But when fate brings them back together, Danny’s cool-guy image and peer pressure threaten to drive a wedge between them. Will love win, or will it all go up in smoke? Get ready for a high-energy, feel-good ride down memory lane!
Location: Dubai Opera
When: Friday, October 24 to November 2
Tickets: From Dhs280
Book: @dubaiopera
October 24: Party on the Vengabus in Abu Dhabi
Get ready to party like it’s the 90s! The Vengaboys are landing in Abu Dhabi this October for a nostalgic night of non-stop bangers at Bla Bla Bar, Yas Marina. The iconic hitmakers behind Boom, Boom, Boom, Boom and We Like to Party are set to light up the stage with their feel-good bubblegum pop vibes — for one night only on October 24. Don’t miss the ultimate throwback rave!
Location: Bla Bla Bar, Yas Marina, Abu Dhabi
When: October 24
Price: From Dhs 300
Book: @blablabarabudhabi
October 25: Witness the jewel in the crown of Showdown Week with UFC 321
UFC 321 is coming in hot with a stacked lineup as the ultimate fight night hits the capital! The main event? A heavyweight showdown between Tom Aspinall and Ciryl Gane that’s guaranteed to shake the octagon. But it’s not just about fight night on Saturday, October 25 — Showdown Week is bringing the hype all week long with epic weigh-ins, live concerts, and a ton of next-level entertainment.
Location: Etihad Arena, Yas Island
When: October 25
Tickets: From Dhs495
Book: etihadarena.ae
October 25 and 26: Check out a cool homegrown foodie fixture
What The Food is back at Alserkal Avenue this October for a two-day feast of ideas, flavors, and culture. Centered around the bold theme ‘Disrupting the Table’, this culinary takeover features thought-provoking panels, hands-on workshops, exclusive masterclasses, foodie pop-ups, and film screenings. Expect standout moments like two deep-dive panels on the UAE’s evolving food scene, a talk by renowned British-Indian chef Asma Khan, plus exciting activations from Alserkal icons like Lila Molina, Nightjar, and Cinema Akil.
Location: Alserkal Avenue
When: October 25 and 26
Visit: @alserkalavenue @whatthefoodbyalserkal
October 29: Rock out at a Stereophonics gig
Welsh rock legends Stereophonics are hitting Dubai this October 29 for a massive night of anthems, as part of their hotly anticipated Stadium Anthems Tour. With over three decades of iconic hits under their belt, fans can expect a high-energy set packed with classics like Dakota, Maybe Tomorrow, and Local Boy in the Photograph. But that’s not all — they’ll also be dropping fresh tracks from their latest album, Make ‘Em Laugh, Make ‘Em Cry, Make ‘Em Wait. Get ready for a night of pure rock nostalgia with a twist of new.
Location: Coca-Cola Arena, City Walk
When: October 29
Price: From Dhs295
Book: @cocacolaarena
October date TBC: Dine at the hands of one of Dubai’s top chefs
Powerhouses Neha Mishra (Kinoya) and Panchali Mahendra (Atelier House Hospitality – behind 11Woodfire, Gerbou, Mohalla and more) are joining forces for an exciting new launch this October. Introducing Tezukuri – a chic temaki bar and kissa-style speakeasy bringing a fresh wave of social dining to Downtown. Expect a curated menu of hand-rolled temaki, made to order to lock in bold flavors and crisp textures. With an open, chef-led set-up, guests can engage directly with the culinary team, making for an elevated, interactive dining experience like no other.
Location: Downtown
When: From October
Book: @tezukuridubai
